Our retail manager Jemma Baskeyfield has been working hard to make sure the factory shop is looking cosy. Taking centre stage in our upstairs best shop is a table setting fit for the most exquisite of dinners. Adorned with seasonal vegetables, Jemma has created a masterpiece inspired by the rich colours and nature autumn has to offer. Using Blue Burgess Chintz, which is now exclusive to our factory shop, this table has been laid for a more formal setting.
First you need to create a base, a sort of platform off the table. Fruit crates are perfect for this which you can pick up easily from the super market
Then cover your platform with a generous bed of greenery for your centrepiece to sit on, using silk flowers will make your display last longer. Jemma used ivy and green and white catkins for this setting.
Once you have a nicely arranged bed of greenery and foliage, add the stars of the show- the pumpkins and squash. When choosing your squashes and pumpkins make sure you go for a variation of colours, shapes sizes and types. Mixing the different autumnal colours together will create a warm atmosphere for your dining experience. For her display, Jemma has used onion squash, prince regent squash, acorn squash, bonbon squash and spaghetti squash.
Top tip- Jemma polishes her pumpkins with local sustainably sourced Cheshire beeswax; this gives them a shine and will also make them last fresher for longer.
When the show stoppers are placed to perfection, Jemma adds warmer tones with red apples, these can be synthetic or real, it really is up to you. Adding barley and wheat acts as a nod to the harvest season and provides more intricate textures and shapes to appreciate whilst you are enjoying your meal.
Lastly add twigs which will add height and the appearance of layers to your centrepiece, you can find these at most florists. To finish use extra pieces of greenery and wheat to make sure the base is fully covered.
Lastly add twigs which will add height and the appearance of layers to your centrepiece, you can find these at most florists. To finish use extra pieces of greenery and wheat to make sure the base is fully covered.